Water treatment system

ABSTRACT

A modular water treatment system includes a plurality of water treatment components selected from a group of a particulate filter component, a taste and odor filter component, a lead and mercury filter component, a water softener component, and a water disinfection component. The water treatment system also includes a plurality of interfaces for coupling to the selected water treatment components, and plumbing lines providing flow communication between the selected components, the plumbing lines comprising a system water inlet and a system water outlet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to water treatment systems, and, moreparticularly, to in-home water treatment systems.

Water treatment devices are generally used to treat water in a home orbuilding for human consumption. At least some known water treatmentdevices include a filter for filtering particles from the water. Atleast some other known water treatment devices include a water softenerassembly for removing hardness minerals from the water. In addition, atleast some known water treatment devices include taste and odor filtersfor reducing chlorine or odor causing material from the water. At leastsome other known water treatment devices include mercury and leadfilters for removing mercury and lead from the water. Furthermore, atleast some other known water treatment devices include disinfectiondevices for removing, killing or inactivating microorganisms such asbacteria, virus, cysts, protozoa, and the like from the water.

However, consumers typically purchase specific individual components toassemble an array of water treatment devices that are specific to waterquality concerns of consumers. Generally, the individual devices areplumbed together to form the array of components. This array ofcomponents typically occupies a large area within a home or building.Additionally, each individual component in the array, functionsindependently from the other components, thus increasing the difficultyof maintaining the overall water treatment system in the consumers homeor building.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, a modular water treatment system is provided including aplurality of water treatment components selected from a group of aparticulate filter component, a taste and odor filter component, a leadand mercury filter component, a water softener component, and a waterdisinfection component. The water treatment system also includes aplurality of interfaces for coupling to the selected water treatmentcomponents, and plumbing lines providing flow communication between theselected components, the plumbing lines comprising a system water inletand a system water outlet.

In another aspect, a modular water treatment system is providedincluding a water softener component, at least one filter component, andplumbing lines providing flow communication between the water softenercomponent and the filter component. The plumbing lines include a systemwater inlet and a system water outlet. A controller is operativelycoupled to the water softener component and the filter component forcontrolling the flow of water within the system.

In a further aspect, a modular water treatment system is providedincluding a water softener component, a water disinfection componentcomprising an ultraviolet lamp, and plumbing lines providing flowcommunication between the water softener component and the waterdisinfection component. The plumbing lines include a system water inletand a system water outlet. A controller is operatively coupled to thewater softener component and the water disinfection component forcontrolling the flow of water within the system.

In yet another aspect, a modular water treatment system is providedincluding at least one filter component, a water disinfection componentcomprising an ultraviolet lamp, and plumbing lines providing flowcommunication between the filter component and the water disinfectioncomponent. The plumbing lines include a system water inlet and a systemwater outlet. A controller is operatively coupled to the filtercomponent and the water disinfection component for controlling the flowof water within the system.

In yet a further aspect, a modular water treatment system is providedincluding a plurality of filter components. Each filter componentincludes a valve for controlling the flow of water through the filtercomponent. Plumbing lines provide flow communication between theplurality of filter components, and the plumbing lines include a systemwater inlet and a system water outlet. A controller is operativelycoupled to the plurality of filter components for controlling the valvesto control the flow of water through the plurality of filter components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary water treatment assembly.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the water treatment assembly shown in FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the water treatment assembly shownin FIG. 1 without a back wall and side walls.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an exemplary water treatment flow patternof the water treatment assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an exemplary control system applicable tothe water treatment assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary control scheme of acontroller for the control system shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control schemeof a controller for the control system shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary control schemeof a controller for the control system shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary controlscheme of a controller for the control system shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control schemeof a controller for the control system shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary controlscheme of a controller for the control system shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary controlscheme of a controller for the control system shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 13 is a front view of an alternative water treatment assembly.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the alternative water treatmentassembly shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a filter wrench for use with the watertreatment assemblies shown in FIGS. 1 and 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary water treatment assembly 10.Water treatment assembly 10 includes a housing or cabinet 12 enclosing aplurality of water treatment elements, or modules, therein. In theexemplary embodiment, water treatment assembly 10 includes a particlefilter module 14 including at least one particle or sediment filter (notshown) for gross particle reduction. Assembly 10 also includes a tasteand odor removal module 16 including a taste and odor filter (not shown)and a lead and mercury removal module 18 including at least one lead andmercury filter (not shown). In an alternative embodiment, watertreatment assembly 10 includes less than all, or a combination of,modules 14, 16 and 18. In the exemplary embodiment, assembly 10 includesat least one additional modular compartment 20 to facilitate housingadditional filter modules depending on the users particular waterquality needs. Modular compartment 20 includes a by-pass sump and may beupgraded with a module similar to the other modules previouslydescribed. Alternatively, water treatment assembly 10 includes multiplemodular compartments 20 that may be upgraded at a later date or inresponse to a determined water quality after installation of assembly10. In the exemplary embodiment, assembly 10 includes a water softenersub-assembly 22.

Assembly 10 includes doors 24 hingedly mounted to housing 12. Doors 24allow access to the plurality of water treatment elements. In theexemplary embodiment, doors 24 include a latch to retain doors 24 in aclosed position. It is to be understood that the present invention isapplicable, not only to water treatment assemblies which form a standalone device, such as water treatment assembly 10, but to other forms ofwater treatment assemblies as well, such as, but not limited to, centralwater treatment systems. Therefore, water treatment assembly 10 isprovided by way of illustration rather than limitation, and accordinglythere is no intention to limit application of the present invention toany particular water treatment assembly, such as water treatmentassembly 10.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of water treatment assembly 10. Watertreatment assembly 10 includes a main inlet 26 and a main outlet 28.Water is channeled through assembly 10 from main inlet 26, through-theplurality of water treatment elements, and eventually to main outlet 28.Water is supplied to main inlet 26 from plumbing lines (not shown) inthe user's home or building. The water supplied to main inlet 26 istypically below a useable quality desired by the user. Specifically, thewater supplied to main inlet 26 may include particles, minerals,bacteria, and the like. Water treatment assembly 10 facilitates removingthese undesirable elements to increase the quality of water consumed bythe user. The water exiting assembly 10 at main outlet 28 is generallyof a higher quality than the water entering assembly 10 at main inlet26.

Housing 12 includes a front panel 30, a cabinet front 32, a base 34, aback wall 36 connected between two side walls 38, and a top cover 40.Top cover 40 may include two cover pieces for separately accessingand/or servicing the various components, such as, for example, watersoftener sub-assembly 22 or modular compartments 14, 16, 18 and 20. Base34 supports the water treatment elements thereon. Doors 24 are hingedlycoupled to side walls 38. Alternatively, doors 24 may be slidablycoupled to side walls 38 or front panel 30. Optionally, doors 24 may belocked in the closed position. Front panel 30 cooperates with cabinetfront 32 to form a front portion 42 of housing 12. Front panel 30 isremovable for accessing the various water treatment elements of assembly10. Front panel 30 includes a display 43 for displaying information tothe user, such as information relating to the operational status of thevarious components or water treatment elements. Display 43 includes akeypad or touch screen (not shown) such that a user may interact withdisplay 43 and thus assembly 10.

Upper and lower filter compartments 44 extend from front panel 30 andhouse modules 14, 16, 18 and 20. Filter compartments 44 are accessiblethrough door 24 and are sized and oriented to allow unobstructed accessto filter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20 for repair or replacement.Specifically, filter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20 are removable from filtercompartments 44 without requiring that filter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20be tilted. However, water spilled from filter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20is caught in a catch basin of compartments 44. A water softenersub-assembly access door 46 is also positioned within front panel 30.Access door 46 is rotatably mounted to front panel 30. Alternatively,access door 46 could be slidably mounted to front panel 30.Alternatively, access door 46 could be eliminated altogether. Frontpanel 30 includes a disinfection module access door 31 for accessingdisinfection module 62 for repair and replacement of disinfection module62.

In assembly 10, each filter module 14, 16, 18 and 20 includes a filtersupport 48 for supporting a respective filter sump 50. The respectivefilters (not shown) are positioned within each filter sump 50.Additionally, each filter module 14, 16, 18 and 20 includes a waterinlet (not shown) and a water outlet (not shown). Each filter module 14,16, 18 and 20 is coupled in flow communication with one another, andmain inlet and outlet 26 and 28, respectively, by a plurality ofplumbing lines 52. Plumbing lines 52 define interfaces for the variouswater treatment components. Each filter module 14, 16, 18 and 20 iscoupled to a filter bracket 54 which facilitates supporting and/oraligning each filter module 14, 16, 18 and 20 within compartments 44.Filter bracket 54 is coupled to top cover 40. Alternatively, each filtermodule 14, 16, 18 and 20 could be coupled to front panel 30.

Water softener sub-assembly 22 includes a brine tank 56, and a resintank 58 positioned in brine tank 56. Resin tank 58 is coupled in flowcommunication with filter modules 14, 16, and 18, and/or other watertreatment assembly elements, at an interface by plumbing lines 52.Moreover, brine tank 56 is coupled in flow communication with resin tank58 such that brine tank 56 regenerates resin tank 58 during aregenerating cycle. Brine tank 56 includes an opening 60 positionedadjacent access door 46. Salt may be added to brine tank 56 throughopening 60 and access door 46.

Water treatment assembly 10 includes a disinfection module 62 whichfacilitates disinfecting the water flowing through water treatmentassembly 10. Specifically, disinfection module 62 substantiallyeliminates microbiological contaminants such as bacteria, virus, cystsand protozoa in the water. Disinfection module 62 is coupled in flowcommunication and interfaces with the various water treatment elementsby plumbing lines 52. Disinfection module 62 is accessible throughaccess panel 31 to facilitate removal or repair of disinfection module62. In assembly 10, disinfection module 62 is an ultraviolet reactor andincludes an ultraviolet lamp or bulb 64 emitting ultraviolet light toinactivate or kill micro-organisms. In an alternative embodiment,disinfection module 62 could include a filter element (not shown) thatmechanically filters the microbial contaminants.

In the exemplary embodiment, disinfection module 62 includes a controlswitch 65 for controlling an operation state of bulb 64. For example,control switch 65 is coupled to controller 68, and controller 68 limitsor restricts power to bulb 64 based on an input from control switch 65.As such, the risk of exposure to a user is substantially reduced, if noteliminated. In the exemplary embodiment, control switch 65 isoperatively coupled to doors 24 or access panel 31 and transmits asignal to controller 68 when doors 24 or access panel 31 are opened.Controller 68 restricts power to bulb 64 when doors 24 or access panel31 is opened, thus powering down or de-energizing lamp 64 during amaintenance procedure. Alternatively, control switch 65 is coupleddirectly to disinfection module 62, such that manipulation ofdisinfection module 62, for example, during cleaning or maintenance,would restrict power to UV bulb or lamp 64.

In operation, a by-product of the light produced by bulb 64 is heat. Theamount of heat in the water, and thus the temperature of the water is afunction of the reactor temperature, the ambient temperature, thetemperature of the incoming water, and the flow rate of the waterthrough the reactor. The amount of heat produced in the water may bemonitored by measuring the temperature of the water within or exitingthe reactor and/or the temperature of the reactor surface andcorrelating that temperature to a temperature of the water containedwithin the reactor.

Controller 68 also operates based on signals generated by a sensorrepresentative of a water temperature in water treatment assembly 10.Controller 68 controls a cooling system or process using a controlalgorithm to limit the heating of the water being treated, such that thewater delivered to an end-user does not exceed an acceptabletemperature. The cooling system includes a cooling device 67, such as afan, which cools the reactor surface, thus extracting heat from thewater. Controller 68 facilitates limiting the temperature rise of thewater in the reactor while bulb 64 is on and disinfection module 62 isoperating by detecting when the temperature is above a warm set pointand turning on the fan. If the temperature exceeds a hot set point,representing a maximum allowable temperature, controller 68 turns lamp64 off and turning on the fan to reduce the temperature of the water inthe reactor. In another embodiment, the cooling system includes a flushvalve 69, such as, for example, a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS)valve. The cooling system operates the flush valve based upon time, flowand/or temperature inputs. When the temperature of the water is above athreshold, controller 68 opens flush valve 69. A predetermined volume ofwater is flushed from the reactor, thus replacing the water in thereactor with cooler water. The volume of water may be controlled byopening the valve for a predetermined amount of time, or by measuringthe volume of water flushed. For example, controller 68 includes atimer. The control algorithm checks the timer. Once the predeterminedtime has elapsed, flush valve 69 is opened for n seconds. The timer isreset, and the process is repeated. Additionally, when the temperatureof the water or the reactor are above a predetermined amount, flushvalve 69 is opened for a certain time or to flush a certain volume ofwater, and the timer may then be reset. The cooling system also includesa thermal shut-off device 71 coupled to lamp 64. In operation, when thetemperature of the water or the temperature of lamp 64 is at or above apredetermined level, shut-off device 71 reduces or ceases power to lamp64 until the water temperature drops below another predeterminedtemperature.

Water treatment assembly 10 includes a by-pass valve 66. By-pass valve66 facilitates channeling water from main inlet 26 to main outlet 28 toby-pass each of the plurality of water treatment elements.Alternatively, by-pass valve 66 could facilitate bypassing watersoftener sub-assembly 22 such that water only flows through filtermodules 14, 16, 18 and 20. In assembly 10, water softener sub-assembly22 is bypassed to flush filter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20 after a filterchange. Alternatively, by-pass valve 66 could facilitate bypassingfilter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20 and channel water to water softenersub-assembly 22, such that water softener sub-assembly 22 may undergo aregeneration process. In asembly 10, by-pass valve 66 is anelectromechanical valve which is automatically activated. Alternatively,by-pass valve 66 could be activated mechanically by a user.

Controller 68 is operatively coupled to main inlet 26, main outlet 28,and by-pass valve 66. Controller 68 facilitates controlling the flow ofwater through water treatment assembly 10. In the exemplary embodiment,controller 68 is coupled to filter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20, watersoftener sub-assembly 22, and/or disinfection module 62 for controllingand/or monitoring the flow of water therethrough. Controller 68 is alsocoupled to a plurality of sensors (not shown in FIG. 2) that monitor theflow of water through water treatment assembly 10, and generate signalsrelating to water characteristics. For example, the sensors may monitorthe flow rate, pressure, or temperature of the water through assembly10. The sensors monitor the water quality of the water channeled throughassembly 10, such as by measuring water turbidity. The sensors may alsomonitor other characteristics of the water flowing through assembly 10.Signals are transmitted to controller 68 relating to such watercharacteristics, and the flow of water or the operation of the watertreatment elements of assembly 10 is controlled by controller 68 inresponse to such signals.

In assembly 10, controller 68 is additionally coupled to display 43.Controller 68 sends signals to and/or receives signals from display 43relating to the operational status of water treatment assembly 10.Alternatively, a user may interact with and/or controls water treatmentassembly 10 via a wireless communication, such as, for example, via awireless communication device or via the internet, or the like, whichfacilitates remotely monitoring assembly 10.

Water treatment assembly 10 includes housing 12, particle filter module14, taste and odor removal module 16, lead and mercury removal module18, one modular compartment 20, disinfection module 62, and watersoftener sub-assembly 22. Alternatively, the water treatment assemblycould include housing 12, particle filter module 14, taste and odorremoval module 16, lead and mercury removal module 18, one modularcompartment 20, and water softener sub-assembly 22. In yet anotherembodiment, the water treatment assembly include housing 12, particlefilter module 14, taste and odor removal module 16, two modularcompartments 20, and water softener sub-assembly 22. Other embodimentsincluding other combinations of water treatment assembly components arealso contemplated by the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a rear portion 70 of water treatmentassembly 10. FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary configuration of watertreatment assembly 10 having main inlet 26, filter modules 14, 16, and18, by-pass sump 20, water softener sub-assembly 22, disinfection module62, and main outlet 28 arranged in series and coupled to one another byplumbing lines 52.

Particle filter module 14 is in flow communication with and positioneddownstream of main inlet 26. Taste and odor removal module 16 is in flowcommunication with and positioned downstream of particle filter module14. Lead and mercury removal module 18 is in flow communication with andpositioned downstream of taste and odor removal module 16. Each module14, 16 and 18 facilitates removing contaminants from the water prior tochanneling water to water softener sub-assembly 22. By-pass sump 20 isin flow communication with modules 14, 16 and 18, and with watersoftener sub-assembly 22. Water is channeled through by-pass sump 20 anddownstream therefrom to water softener sub-assembly 22. In analternative embodiment, an additional filter element replaces by-passsump 20 and is in flow communication with and positioned downstream oflead and mercury removal module 18. The additional filter element isused to further treat the water prior to being channeled to the watersoftener sub-assembly 22.

Resin tank 58 of water softener sub-assembly 22 is in flow communicationwith and positioned downstream of filter modules 14, 16, 18, and 20.Particulates and minerals are thus removed from the water and sedimentbuild up in the resin within resin tank 58 is reduced. Additionally,chlorine is removed from the water, extending the life of water softenersub-assembly 22. In an alternative embodiment, filter modules 14, 16,18, and 20 are positioned downstream of water softener sub-assembly 22.Moreover, disinfection module 62 is in flow communication with andpositioned downstream of water softener sub-assembly 22. As such,additional hardness minerals are removed from the water, therebyreducing scale build up within disinfection module 62. As a result, alarger volume of water may be channeled through water softenersub-assembly 22 between regeneration and/or service cycles. However, inalternative embodiments, disinfection module 62 is positioned upstreamof water softener sub-assembly 22 and/or filter modules 14, 16, 18, and20.

In an alternative embodiment, taste and odor removal module 16 and/orlead and mercury removal module 18 are positioned downstream of resintank 58, and upstream of disinfection module 62. As a result, the wateris first channeled through water softener sub-assembly 22, thus removinghardness minerals and extending the useful life of taste and odorremoval module 16 and/or lead and mercury removal module 18.

In the exemplary embodiment, water treatment assembly 10 includes drainlines 72 extending from upper and lower filter compartments 44 to brinetank 56. Drain lines 72 facilitate draining water from respectivecompartments 44 to brine tank 56, such as, for example, water spilledfrom filter sumps 50 during a filter change. Drain lines 72 are coupledto brine tank 56 at a position above a water level of brine tank 56during normal operating conditions, such that water does not flow frombrine tank 56 into compartments 44. Drain lines 72 extend betweendisinfection module 62 and brine tank 56 such that water may be drainedfrom disinfection module 62 to brine tank 56 upon servicing ofdisinfection module 62. Additionally, as described in more detail below,water is drained from disinfection module 62 to brine tank 56 when thetemperature of the water in disinfection module 62 is above apredetermined temperature.

In use, during a filter change, filter compartment 44 captures waterspilled from filter sumps 50 as filter sumps 50 are removed. Waterspilled is then channeled from compartment 44 into brine tank 56 viadrain lines 72. In an alternative embodiment, water spilled is channeledfrom compartment 44 directly into a drain. As a result of sucharrangements, minimal water is spilled outside of water treatmentassembly 10 during the filter change, making it more convenient for theuser to maintain water treatment assembly 10. After a filter change,water is channeled through water treatment assembly 10 to flush thevarious water treatment elements. By-pass valve 66 is utilized toby-pass various elements such as water softener sub-assembly 22 anddisinfection module 68. As described above, a drain line 72 also extendsbetween disinfection module 62 and brine tank 56 such that water may bechanneled from disinfection module 62 to brine tank 56, such as duringmaintenance of disinfection module 62 and/or when the temperature ofdisinfection module is above a predetermined amount. Additionally, whenthe temperature of disinfection module 62 is above a predeterminedamount, water may be channeled to the drain by a bypass system.

During a regenerating cycle of resin tank 58, a predetermined amount ofwater in brine tank 56, including spilled water from filter compartment44 and/or disinfection module 62, is channeled to resin tank 58 forregenerating the resin within resin tank 58. After regenerating theresin, water is channeled from resin tank 58 to the drain (not shown).

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an exemplary water flow path through thevarious water treatment elements of water treatment assembly 10. Watersupplied to main inlet 26 is channeled to particle filter module 14.Particle filter module 14 facilitates removing particulates, minerals,and other contaminants from the water channeled therethrough. As aresult, the contaminants are not channeled through the downstream watertreatment elements, thus reducing build up, blockage and/or clogging ofthe elements, thereby reducing the number of filter changes required.

Water is then channeled through taste and odor removal module 16 forremoving chemicals such as chlorine, particles, and other contaminantscausing reduced water quality relating to taste and/or odor of thewater. Water is channeled through lead and mercury removal module 18 forremoving minerals and metals, specifically lead and mercury, from thewater. More specifically, lower quantities of minerals and metals suchas lead and mercury in the water leads to higher quality water for theend user. Additionally, water is channeled through modular compartment20, and more particularly, the bypass sump of modular compartment 20. Inthe exemplary embodiment, a flush valve is positioned downstream ofmodules 14, 16 and 18 and compartment 20 for directing water to a drain.The filters in modules 14, 16 and 18 and compartment 20 may be flushedwithout sending the water through water softener sub-assembly 22.

After water is channeled through modules 14, 16 and 18 and compartment20, the water is channeled through water softener sub-assembly 22, andparticularly resin tank 58, for removing hardness minerals from thewater. More specifically, lower quantities of hardness minerals in thewater leads to higher quality water for the end user.

Water is then channeled through disinfection module 62 for removing,killing or inactivating contaminants such as bacteria, virus, cysts,protozoa, other microbes, and the like from the water. Specifically,disinfection module 62 includes ultraviolet lamp 64 which producesultraviolet light for reducing, and in some instances, substantiallyeliminating bacteria, virus, cysts, protozoa, other microbes, and thelike from the water. In the exemplary embodiment, disinfection module 62is positioned downstream of the other water treatment elements toprevent scale build up within disinfection module 62. Water is thenchanneled from disinfection module 62 to bypass valve 66 and main outlet28. In alternative embodiments, water may be channeled to bypass valve66 from water softener sub-assembly 22 or from modules 12, 16 and 18 andcompartment 20. As such, at least some of the downstream components maybe bypassed.

In another embodiment, water is channeled from the various watertreatment elements to a drain. Specifically, the drain is in flowcommunication with water treatment assembly 10. Excess water from thevarious components, such as, for example, water softener sub-assembly22, disinfection module 62, filter modules 14, 16 or 18, and opencompartment 20 is channeled to the drain. In the exemplary embodiment,the water is channeled into brine tank 56, and the excess water is thenchanneled to the drain. In another embodiment, excess water within brinetank 56 and/or resin tank 58 produced during a regeneration sequence ischanneled to the drain.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an exemplary control system 80 applicableto water treatment assembly 10. Control system 80 is controlled bycontroller 68. As described above, controller 68 is coupled to thevarious water treatment elements. Specifically, in the exemplaryembodiment, controller 68 is operatively coupled to valves at main inlet26, main outlet 28, and by-pass valve 66. Additionally, controller 68 iscoupled to sensors 82 within water treatment assembly 10. Controller 68is also operatively coupled to filter modules 14, 16, 18 and 20, watersoftener sub-assembly 22, and/or disinfection module 62. For example,controller 68 may be coupled to control valves (not shown) of each watertreatment element. In the exemplary embodiment, controller 68 is coupledto display 43 and information relating to the operational status of thevarious water treatment elements is transmitted to display 43, such thata user may view such information. Controller 68 monitors the systemfunctions, filter capacity and the flow of water through each componentof water treatment assembly 10 and transmits signals to display 43relating to such activities. Additionally, user inputs entered via thetouch pads or touch screen of display 43 to initiate control functionsand/or status queries are transmitted to controller 68.

As described above, water treatment assembly 10 includes a plurality ofsensors 82 monitoring the operational status of the water treatmentelements and the status of the water channeled through plumbing lines 52(shown in FIG. 2). In the exemplary embodiment, sensors 82 include flowrate sensors, pressure sensors, or sensors configured to determine anamount of contaminants within the water. Each sensor 82 transmits asignal to controller 68 when a predetermined condition is met, such as,for example, when the flow rate of the water is below or above apredetermined amount, when the water pressure drop across a filter orthe system is above a predetermined amount, or when a predeterminedamount of contaminants is detected by sensor 82. In the exemplaryembodiment, controller 68 alerts a user of such predetermined conditionby displaying such information on display 43, or by sounding an alarmrelating to such condition. Additionally, controller 68 prevents certainnon-critical alarms during a pre-selected time period, i.e. during thenight time.

Over time, the various the operating efficiency of the water treatmentelements may decrease to a point near or even below a desired workingcapacity or rated capacity of the element. Water treatment assembly 10monitors the efficiency and effectiveness of the elements and indicatesto a user when the various elements need replacement or maintenance.Additionally, water treatment assembly 10 may restrict water flow to auser if the water quality is below a predetermined threshold. In theexemplary embodiment, controller 68 is operatively coupled to by-passvalve 66, and controls the operation thereof. In the exemplaryembodiment, controller 68 activates by-pass valve 66 to divert thewaterflow from water treatment assembly 10 when sensors 82 detect thatone of the water treatment elements is beyond the working capacity. Thewater is diverted to a drain such that the water is not delivered to auser. Alternatively, rather than activating by-pass valve 66, controller68 shuts down water treatment assembly 10 upon detection that one of thewater treatment elements is beyond the working capacity. As such, waterhaving a reduced quality is not delivered to the user. In anotherembodiment, controller 68 activates by-pass valve 66 to bypass resintank 58 of water softener sub-assembly 22 when flushing filter modules14, 16, and 18 upon a filter change. Alternatively, controller 68transmits a signal to display 43 to indicate to a user that by-passvalve 66 should be mechanically activated.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary control scheme ofcontroller 68. Sensor 82 is a flow meter and measures total flow ofwater through a particular water treatment element. The flow meter iscoupled to a plumbing line 52 upstream of the element. Alternatively,the flow meter may be downstream of the element. The flow meterdetermines a flow rate of the water through such water treatment elementby measuring 102 the flow rate. Sensor 82 then transmits a signal tocontroller 68 based on the measured flow rate. Controller 68 determinesa total amount of flow through each element. Controller 68 thendetermines 104 if the flow rate exceeds a filter capacity. If thecapacity is exceeded, then an alarm or filter change indicator isactivated 106. Additionally, controller 68 activates a valve to shut offflow to or from the particular water treatment element. If the capacityis not exceeded, controller 68 determines or calculates 108 anoperational state of the element, such as a level of sediment collectedin the element, and determines whether or not to replace thecorresponding element. For example, controller 68 determines 110 theamount of sediment build up based on an amount of flow, such as a volumeof water, through the particular water treatment element. When the totalflow exceeds the rated capacity of the element or when the determinedsediment level is above a predetermined amount, then controller 68determines that the element needs to be replaced. An alarm or filterchange indicator is activated 112, and/or a valve to shut off flow to orfrom the particular water treatment element is activated.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control schemeof controller 68. Sensor 82 is a water pressure sensor. Each waterpressure sensor is coupled to a plumbing line 52 both upstream anddownstream of a particular water treatment element. The pressure sensordetermines a change in pressure of the water through such watertreatment element by measuring 116 the pressure upstream and downstreamof the element. Sensor 82 then transmits a signal to controller 68 basedon the measured pressure. Controller 68 determines an amount of pressurereduction or change in pressure of the water through the element.Controller 68 then determines 118 if the change in pressure is above apredetermined set point. Controller 68 thus detects an operational stateof the element, such as a level of sediment collected in the element,and determines whether or not to replace the corresponding element bydetermining a change in pressure through the element. If the change inpressure is above the set point, then controller 68 determines that theelement is clogged and needs to be replaced. An alarm or filter changeindicator is activated 120, and/or a valve to shut off flow to or fromthe particular water treatment element is activated.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary control schemeof controller 68. Sensor 82 is a water softener monitoring sensor. Thewater softener monitoring sensor measures 124 incoming and outgoingwater mineral content or water hardness. Optionally, the-mineral contentlevel is displayed 126. Sensor 82 transmits a signal to controller 68relating to the measured mineral contents, and controller 68 determineswhen the resin in resin tank 58 requires regeneration based on themeasured mineral content. Controller 68 thus controls the operationalmode of water treatment assembly 10 to perform a regeneration cycle. Forexample, controller 68 calculates 128 a resin efficiency, such as aresin loading or a remaining capacity, based on a change in mineralcontent and determines 130 if the level is below a predeterminedthreshold. Alternatively, controller 68 calculates 128 a resinefficiency based on a measured mineral content downstream of watersoftener sub-assembly 22. If the efficiency is below a threshold level,then controller 68 will initiate 132 a regeneration cycle.

In the exemplary embodiment, because water disinfection module 62 isdownstream of water softener sub-assembly 22 and may be negativelyimpacted by organic compounds in the water, such as by the organiccompounds absorbing UV light and reducing the efficiency of waterdisinfection module 62, resin tank 58 is regenerated. For example, aregeneration cycle is performed after water softener sub-assembly 22operates for a predetermined amount of time, or if water softenersub-assembly 22 has been idle for a predetermined amount of time. Inanother embodiment, a regeneration cycle is performed after watersoftener sub-assembly 22 has treated a predetermined volume of water.Alternatively, a regeneration cycle is performed based on a measuredamount of organic compound in the water. As a result of regeneration,the resin in resin tank 58 is flushed and the amount of organiccompounds in the water is decreased. Disinfection module 62 is notoverloaded and operates efficiently. In other embodiments, the amount oforganic compounds is reduced by draining or filtering the water fromresin tank 58.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary controlscheme of controller 68. Sensor 82 is a water disinfection elementsensor. Sensor 82 determines 136 an ultraviolet light level or anintensity of ultraviolet lamp 64. Controller 68 then determines 138 ifthe level is below a predetermined amount. If the level is below apredetermined amount, water flow from water treatment assembly 10 isshut off 140. In the exemplary embodiment, an ultraviolet lampreplacement indicator is activated 142 based on the level determined bycontroller. For example, an alarm may be sounded or an LED may beactivated indicated maintenance is required. Additionally, by comparingintensity values over time, lamp degradation is monitored by controller68.

In an alternative embodiment, sensor determines 136 an amount ofmicrobes within the water downstream of disinfection module 62 andtransmits a signal relating to the amount of microbes to controller 68.For example, sensor 82 is a particle sensor or a turbidity sensor.Controller 68 thus determines an operational status or efficiency ofultraviolet lamp 64 (shown in FIG. 2) and when ultraviolet lamp 64 needsto be replaced or the system cleaned. For example, controller 68determines 138 if the microbe level is above a predetermined amount. Ifthe level is above a predetermined amount, water flow from watertreatment assembly 10 is shut off 140. Alternatively, an intensity ofultraviolet lamp 64 may be changed to reduce the amount of microbes inthe water. An ultraviolet lamp replacement indicator is activated 142based on the level determined by controller. For example, an alarm maybe sounded or an LED may be activated indicated maintenance is required.

In another alternative embodiment, sensor 82 determines an efficiencylevel of a mechanical microbiological disinfection filtration media.Specifically, sensor 82 measures a pressure differential across thefiltration membrane or sensor 82 measures a particle count in the waterbefore and after filtration. In one embodiment, controller 68 shuts offthe flow of water if the UV level is below a predetermined amount.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control schemeof controller 68. Controller 68 may be used to detect sensor drift. Forexample, sensor 82 is a light intensity sensor, and sensor 82 measures146 an intensity of ultraviolet lamp 64. Controller 68 stores themeasured values. In the exemplary embodiment, sensor 82 is used tomeasure sensor drift to diagnose a faulty sensor. A rolling average oflamp intensity is computed by controller 68. The rolling average is usedfor determining lamp degradation over time. At time T(n)=X, the changein lamp degradation is compared 148 to a stored value based on theparticular lamp 64 used. The stored value is based on manufacturer'sspecifications. Controller 68 determines 150 if the change in lampdegradation is greater than the stored value, within a certainpercentage. If the change is greater than the stored value, then a firstderivative of the lamp degradation is calculated 152. Controller 68 thendetermines 154 if the derivative is greater than the derivative of thestore value at a future time, such as in 30 days. If the derivative isgreater than the stored value of the future derivative, then controller68 activates 156 an alarm or an indicator that the sensor is drifting.In an alternative embodiment, lamp 64 is pulsed, and the intensity ismeasured when the lamp power is on, when the lamp power is off, and whenthe lamp power is on again. The intensity values are compared todetermine if the sensor is drifting.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary controlscheme of controller 68. The control scheme is related to a backupsystem that determines if sensor 82 is faulty, if controller 68 isfaulty, or if the signals or transmissions between sensor 82 andcontroller 68 is faulty. Sensor 82 is a light intensity sensor, such as,for example, a photodiode, and sensor 82 measures 146 an intensity ofultraviolet lamp 64. Sensor 82 transmits 170 a signal to controller 68,which functions as a primary controller. A signal relating to the lightintensity is also transmitted 172 to a secondary or backup controller(not shown). In the exemplary embodiment, both signals are generated bythe same sensor 82. In an alternative embodiment, the signals aregenerated by different sensors 82. The intensity signals are compared174 with one another. If the signals are different from one another bymore than a predetermined amount, such as, for example, five percent,then a timer is started 176 for N seconds. A rolling average of eachsignal is calculated 178. After N seconds, the average signals arecompared 180. If the signals are different from one another by more thana predetermined amount, such as, for example, five percent, thencontroller 68 activates 1182 an alarm or an indicator and/or shuts offwater flow.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary controlscheme of controller 68. Sensor 82 is a filter identification sensor.The identification sensor recognizes 158 an identification chip (notshown) embedded within a particular water treatment element. Theidentification sensor recognizes the identification chip on the elementand transmits 160 a signal with the identification information tocontroller 68. Controller 68 automatically recognizes the presenceand/or type of element included in water treatment assembly 10.Controller 68 also recognizes 162 when the element is changed, and/orwhen a new element is installed into water treatment assembly 10. Forexample, the identification chip may include information relating to adate of manufacture, a date of installation or first use, or a capacityor use of the element, such as an amount of water channeled through theelement. When a new element is installed, the identification chipindicates to the sensor that the element is a new element.Alternatively, a bar code could be used and the sensor could be a barcode reader.

FIG. 13 is a front view of an alternative embodiment, water treatmentassembly 200. Water treatment assembly 200 includes a housing or cabinet212 enclosing a plurality of water treatment elements, or modules,therein. Water treatment assembly 200 includes a particle filter module214 including at least one particle or sediment filter (not shown), ataste and odor removal module 216 including a taste and odor filter (notshown), a lead and mercury removal module 218 including at least onelead and mercury filter (not shown), and an additional compartment 220for mounting additional filter modules depending on the user'sparticular water quality needs. Assembly 200 also includes adisinfection module 222. In yet another alternative embodiment,disinfection module 222 could be deleted.

In contrast to water treatment assembly 10 (shown in FIG. 1), watertreatment assembly 200 does not include a water softener disposed withinhousing 212. It is appreciated, however, that assembly 200 may beconnected to a free standing water softener (not shown) located outsideassembly 200 by plumbing lines (not shown). Therefore, water treatmentassembly 200 is provided by way of illustration rather than limitation,and accordingly there is no intention to limit application of thepresent invention to any particular water treatment assembly, such aswater treatment assembly 200.

Water treatment assembly 200 is wall mounted, and includes a main inlet224 and a main outlet 226. Water is channeled through assembly 200-frommain inlet 224, through the plurality of water treatment elements, andeventually to main outlet 226. Water supplied to main inlet 224 istypically below a useable quality desired by the user, and watertreatment assembly 200 facilitates removing at least some undesirableelements from the water channeled therethrough to increase the qualityof the water.

Housing 212 includes two doors 230 hingedly coupled thereto.Alternatively, doors 230 may be slidably coupled to housing 212. Housing212 further includes an upper and a lower filter compartment 232 definedin a left portion thereof, a disinfection module compartment 234 definedin a right portion thereof, and a display 236 for displaying informationto the user, such as information relating to the operational status ofthe various water treatment elements. When doors 230 are closed, doors230 cover filter compartments 232 and disinfection module compartment234, respectively.

Upper and lower filter compartments 232 receive modules 214, 216, and218 therein, respectively. Filter compartments 232 are accessiblethrough doors 230, and are sized and oriented to allow unobstructedaccess to filter modules 214, 216, and 218 for repair or replacement offilter modules 214, 216, and 218. Specifically, filter modules 214, 216,and 218 are removable from filter compartments 232 without tilting offilter modules 214, 216, and 218. Each filter compartment 232 includes atray 238 removably positioned therein and located below each module 214,216, and 218. Each tray 238 facilitates collecting water spilled frommodules 214, 216, and 218 during a filter change. Spilled water iscollected in tray 238, and tray 238 may be removed from filtercompartments 232 to discard collected water into a drain (not shown).

Disinfection module compartment 234 is accessible through doors 230, andreceives disinfection module 222 therein. Disinfection modulecompartment 234 includes a latch or clamp 240 extending outwardtherefrom. Latch 240 may hold a portion of disinfection module 222 in asnapping manner, such that disinfection module 222 is substantiallyvertically positioned in module compartment 234. It is appreciated,however, that the location and the structure of latch 240 may be variedin alternative embodiments.

Each filter module 214, 216, and 218 includes a filter support 242 forsupporting a respective filter sump 244. The respective filters (notshown) are positioned within each filter sump 244. Each filter module214, 216, and 218 is coupled in flow communication with one another, andmain inlet and outlet 224 and 226, respectively, by a plurality ofplumbing lines (not shown). Each filter sump 244 is threadably coupledto the corresponding filter support 242. Each filter sump 244 furtherincludes a plurality of holding ribs 246 extending outward from an outersurface 248 thereof. Holding ribs 246 facilitate grasping filter sump244 such that filter sump 244 may be rotated with respect tocorresponding filter support 242 for mounting or removal therefrom.Filter sumps 244 may be removed without tilting, thus reducing spillageduring filter changes.

Due to the limited space within module compartment 234, the disinfectionelements may not be removable from disinfection module 222 formaintenance or replacement or removal may be difficult. As such,disinfection module 222 is rotatably positioned within disinfectionmodule compartment 234, and is accessible from the front of housing 212.Disinfection module 222 is coupled in flow communication with thevarious water treatment elements, and/or main inlet and outlet 224, 226by the plumbing lines (not shown), and includes a plurality ofdisinfection elements which facilitate disinfecting the water flowingtherethrough. Disinfection module 222 is held by latch 240 of modulecompartment 234, and is substantially vertically secured within modulecompartment 234, which is referred to as a normal state or operationalstate of disinfection module 222. In the operational state, disinfectionmodule 222 occupies most of the space within module compartment 234along the longitudinal direction. As such, the disinfection elements cannot be removed when disinfection module 222 is in the operational state.

Water treatment assembly 200 includes housing 212, particle filtermodule 214, taste and odor removal module 216, and two modularcompartments 220. In another embodiment, water treatment assembly 210includes housing 212, particle filter module 214, taste and odor removalmodule 216, lead and mercury removal module 218, and one modularcompartment 220. In yet another embodiment, water treatment assembly 210includes housing 212, particle filter module 214, taste and odor removalmodule 216, lead and mercury removal module 218, one modular compartment220 and disinfection module 222. However, other embodiments includingcombinations of water treatment assembly components are available, suchas a water softener sub-assembly, or a valve for receiving plumbinglines for a water softener sub-assembly.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of water treatment assembly 200 showingdisinfection module 222 in an extended state or maintenance state.Disinfection module 222 is disengaged from latch 240, and is rotatedoutward from the operational state (shown in FIG. 13). In the extendedstate, disinfection module 222 may be accessed for maintenance orreplacement.

Disinfection module 222 includes an elongated tube body 260 housing anelongated ultraviolet lamp or bulb 262 therein, an end cap 264threadably coupled to a top end of tube body 260, and a rotatable cradle266 for receiving the bottom end (not shown) of tube body 260. In analternative embodiment, disinfection module 222 includes a filterelement (not shown) that mechanically filters microbial contaminantsfrom the water flowing therethrough.

Tube body 260 includes a water inlet (not shown) and a water outlet (notshown), and water is channeled through tube body 260. Ultraviolet lamp262 is longitudinally positioned within tube body 260 for removing,killing or inactivating microbiological contaminants, such as bacteria,virus, cysts and protozoa from the water channeled through tube body260. Ultraviolet lamp 262 is removable from tube body 260 along thelength of tube body 260 for maintenance or replacement.

Water treatment assembly 200 includes at least one safety feature toprotect a user from exposure to ultraviolet light from lamp 262. Forexample, a control switch (not shown) may be coupled to end cap 264 andmay transmit a signal to the controller when end cap 264 is removed. Assuch, the controller restricts power to ultraviolet lamp 262 when endcap 264 is removed. The user is thus not exposed to ultraviolet lightwhen the lamp 262 is-removed. In another embodiment, water treatmentassembly 200 includes a sensor interlock (not shown) on door 230, suchthat, when door 230 is opened, power to lamp 262 is restricted.

End cap 264 is threadably coupled to tube body 260, and is removablefrom tube body 260 for providing access to ultraviolet lamp 262 and/orthe filter element received in tube body 260. Ultraviolet lamp 262 isfixed to end cap 264, when end cap 264 is disengaged with tube body 260,ultraviolet lamp 262 can be pulled out from tube body 260 together withend cap 264. Additionally, end cap 264 may engage with latch 240 (shownin FIG. 13) to retain disinfection module 222 in the retracted state(shown in FIG. 13), and end cap 264 may disengage with latch 240 toallow disinfection module 222 to rotate to the extended state.Alternatively, end cap 264 may separate from ultraviolet lamp 262, whenend cap 264 is removed from tube body 260, ultraviolet lamp 262 can thenbe pulled out from tube body 260 for maintenance or replacement.

Cradle 266 includes a T-shaped tube 267 having two coaxially formed hubs268 at ends of tube 267. Tube body 260 is seated within tube 267. Hubs268 are rotatably mounted to posts (not shown) formed in disinfectionmodule compartment 234. Cradle 266 may rotate with respect to the axisof hubs 268, sometimes referred to as the rotation axis, whichfacilitates disinfection module 222 rotating between the normal state(shown in FIG. 13) and the extended state. Tube 267 is coupled in flowcommunication with the various water treatment elements through aplumbing line (not shown) extending therethrough. Specifically, theplumbing line in tube 267 includes an inlet extending through one ofhubs 268 and an outlet coupled to tube body 260. Water is channeled intotube body 260 through T-shaped tube 267. An o-ring seal (not shown) ispositioned at the inlet of the plumbing line in tube 267, to preventwater leakage when tube 267 rotates together with cradle 266.

Disinfection module 222 further includes a plurality of plumbing lines270 connected in series. Plumbing lines 270 are coupled in flowcommunication with each other, and are rotatable with respect to eachother. One terminating plumbing line 270 is coupled with the wateroutlet of tube body 260, and another terminating plumbing line 270 iscoupled with main outlet 226 or other water treatment elements. Plumbinglines 270 form a flexible flow path between disinfection module 222, andmain outlet 226 or other water treatment elements. When disinfectionmodule 222 is in the normal state (shown in FIG. 13), plumbing lines 270rotate toward each other, and are retracted and positioned behinddisinfection module 222 within disinfection module compartment 234. Whendisinfection module 222 is in the extended state, plumbing lines 270rotate away from each other, and are substantially aligned with oneanother. A plurality of o-ring seals (not shown) are positioned betweeneach plumbing line 270 to prevent water leakage. Alternatively, aplurality of slip ring seals may be positioned between each plumbingline 270. Also, plumbing lines 270 may be interconnected via a quickdisconnect style connection, a flexible tube, or the like.

In operation, water supplied to main inlet 224 is channeled to particlefilter module 214 for removing particulates, minerals, and othercontaminants from the water channeled therethrough. Water is thenchanneled through taste and odor removal module 216 for removingchemicals such as chlorine, particles, and other contaminants causingreduced water quality relating to taste and/or odor of the water. Wateris then channeled through lead and mercury removal module 218 forremoving minerals, specifically lead and mercury, from the water. Wateris then channeled through disinfection module 222 for removing, killingor inactivating contaminants such as bacteria, virus, cysts, othermicrobes, and the like from the water. Specifically, water is channeledthrough the plumbing line in tube 267, into tube body 260, and thenthrough each plumbing line 270. Water is then channeled fromdisinfection module 222 to main outlet 226. It is appreciated that,water treatment elements of water treatment assembly 200 may bemonitored and operated in a similar manner as water treatment assembly10 (shown in FIG. 1), and the flow path of water treatment assembly 200may be varied in alternative embodiments. For example, water may bechanneled through a water softener (not shown) located outside watertreatment assembly 200 before being channeled through disinfectionmodule 222. Alternatively, water may be channeled to an alternativeexternal water treatment device.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a filter wrench 280 for use with watertreatment assemblies 10 and 200 shown in FIGS. 1 and 13. Filter wrench280 includes a wrench body 282 extending between a first end 284 and asecond end 286. A filter sump removal portion 288 is positioned at firstend 284, and an end cap removal portion 290 is positioned at second end286.

Wrench body 282 includes an elongated groove 292 defined along alongitudinal direction on a side face 294 thereof, and adjacent secondend 286. Wrench body 282 also includes a rectangular recess 296 definedon side face 294 and adjacent groove 292.

Filter sump removal portion 288 is substantially ring-shaped, andincludes a circumferential inner surface 298. Alternatively, filter sumpremoval portion 288 could include an open side such that portion 288 isc-shaped. A plurality of protrusions or teeth 300 extend inward frominner surface 298, and are spaced at a predetermined distance withrespect to each other. Inner surface 298 is sized to fittingly surroundfilter sump 244 (shown in FIG. 13), and protrusions 300 are configuredto engage holding ribs 246 (shown in FIG. 13) of filter sump 244.Ring-shaped filter sump removal portion 288 may be insert into filtercompartments 232 and cooperate with filter sump 244, to rotate filtersump 244 with respect to filter support 242 (shown in FIG. 13), thusremoving filter modules 214, 216, and 218 from water treatment assembly200.

End cap removal portion 290 includes a substantially ring-shapedflexible portion 302 having a first end 304 and a second end 306. Alever 308 extends from first end 304 of flexible portion 302 and wrenchbody 282 extends from second end 306 of flexible portion 302.Alternatively, end cap removal portion 290 could include an open sidesuch that portion 290 is c-shaped. End cap removal portion 290 is sizedto receive end cap 264 (shown in FIG. 13) of disinfection module 222(shown in FIG. 13).

Flexible portion 302 also includes a staggered inner surface 310 whichis configured to surround and grasp end cap 264 of disinfection module222. Lever 304 may rotate outward or inward to enlarge or reduce thesize of flexible portion 302, and end cap removal portion 290 may beloosened or tightened about end cap 264 when flexible portion 302surrounds end cap 264. End cap removal portion 290 may grasp and rotateend cap 264 for removal or replacement of end cap 264. In the exemplaryembodiment, lever 304 further includes a rectangular head portion 312.Lever 304 may rotate into groove 292 of wrench body 282, and headportion 312 may be retained within recess 296. Lever 304 is rotated andsecured into wrench body 282, which facilitates handling wrench body 282when using filter sump removal portion 288 to mount or detach filtermodules. A filter wrench 280 is thus provided which can providemaintenance to water treatment assembly 10 or 200 by use of a singletool. Specifically, filter wrench 280 has multiple sized ends forremoving various sized components of water treatment assembly 10 or 200.

The above-described assembly provides a cost-effective and reliablemethod and apparatus for water treatment. Specifically, the modulardesign of the water treatment assembly allows a user to treat the waterand particular contaminants within the water which may be specific tothat user. The assembly includes a controller and a plurality of sensorsto facilitate maintaining, repairing and replacing each of thecomponents of the assembly on an as-needed basis.

Exemplary embodiments of water treatment assemblies are described abovein detail. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited tothe specific embodiments described herein, but rather each component maybe utilized independently and separately from other components describedherein. Each component can also be used in combination with other watertreatment assemblies.

While the invention has been described in terms of various specificembodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the inventioncan be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of theclaims.

1. A modular water treatment system comprising: a plurality of watertreatment components selected from a group comprising a particulatefilter component, a taste and odor filter component, a lead and mercuryfilter component, a water softener component, and a water disinfectioncomponent; a plurality of interfaces for coupling to said selected watertreatment components; and plumbing lines providing flow communicationbetween said selected components, said plumbing lines comprising asystem water inlet and a system water outlet.
 2. A modular watertreatment system in accordance with claim 1 further comprising acontroller operatively coupled to said selected water treatmentcomponents for controlling the flow of water therethrough.
 3. A modularwater treatment system in accordance with claim 2 further comprising asensor configured to transmit a signal to said controller relating to acharacteristic of the water within said system.
 4. A modular watertreatment system in accordance with claim 3 wherein said sensorconfigured to transmit a signal to said controller relating to at leastone of a temperature of the water within said system, a flow rate of thewater within said system, a pressure of the water within said system,and a turbidity level of the water within said system.
 5. A modularwater treatment system in accordance with claim 2 wherein saidcontroller is self-configuring based on which water treatment componentsare connected to said interfaces.
 6. A modular water treatment system inaccordance with claim 2 wherein said controller is further configured torecognize which components are connected within said system.
 7. Amodular water treatment system in accordance with claim 2 wherein saidwater disinfection component comprises an ultraviolet lamp configured toheat the water channeled through said water disinfection component, saidcontroller configured to restrict channeling water through said systemwater outlet having a temperature above a predetermined temperature. 8.A modular water treatment system in accordance with claim 1 wherein saidplurality of interfaces are positioned within a housing.
 9. A modularwater treatment system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said pluralityof water treatment components further comprise a by-pass sump.
 10. Amodular water treatment system comprising: a water softener component;at least one filter component; plumbing lines providing flowcommunication between said water softener component and said filtercomponent, said plumbing lines comprising a system water inlet and asystem water outlet; and a controller operatively coupled to said watersoftener component and said filter component for controlling the flow ofwater within said system.
 11. A modular water treatment system inaccordance with claim 10 wherein said filter component comprises atleast one of a particulate filter component, a taste and odor filtercomponent, or a lead and mercury filter component.
 12. A modular watertreatment system in accordance with claim 10 further comprising a sensorconfigured to transmit a signal to said controller relating to acharacteristic of the water within said system.
 13. A modular watertreatment system in accordance with claim 10 wherein said filtercomponent is positioned upstream of said water softener component.
 14. Amodular water treatment system comprising: a water softener component; awater disinfection component comprising an ultraviolet lamp; plumbinglines providing flow communication between said water softener componentand said water disinfection component, said plumbing lines comprising asystem water inlet and a system water outlet; and a controlleroperatively coupled to said water softener component and said waterdisinfection component for controlling the flow of water within saidsystem.
 16. A modular water treatment system in accordance with claim 14further comprising a sensor configured to transmit a signal to saidcontroller relating to a characteristic of the water within said system.17. A modular water treatment system in accordance with claim 14 whereinsaid water softener component is positioned upstream of said waterdisinfection component.
 18. A modular water treatment system comprising:at least one filter component; a water disinfection component comprisingan ultraviolet lamp; plumbing lines providing flow communication betweensaid filter component and said water disinfection component, saidplumbing lines comprising a system water inlet and a system wateroutlet; and a controller operatively coupled to said filter componentand said water disinfection component for controlling the flow of waterwithin said system.
 19. A modular water treatment system in accordancewith claim 18 wherein said filter component comprises at least one of aparticulate filter component, a taste and odor filter component, and alead and mercury filter component.
 20. A modular water treatment systemin accordance with claim 18 further comprising a sensor configured totransmit a signal to said controller relating to a characteristic of thewater within said system.
 21. A modular water treatment system inaccordance with claim 18 wherein said filter component is positionedupstream of said water disinfection component.
 22. A modular watertreatment system comprising: a plurality of filter components, each saidfilter component comprising a valve for controlling the flow of waterthrough said filter component; plumbing lines providing flowcommunication between said plurality of filter components, said plumbinglines comprising a system water inlet and a system water outlet; and acontroller operatively coupled to said plurality of filter componentsfor controlling said valves to control the flow of water through saidplurality of filter components.
 23. A modular water treatment system inaccordance with claim 22 wherein said filter component comprises atleast one of a particulate filter component, a taste and odor filtercomponent, and a lead and mercury filter component.
 24. A modular watertreatment system in accordance with claim 22 further comprising a sensorconfigured to transmit a signal to said controller relating to acharacteristic of the water within said system.